Wing Chun

Practical Introduction
to Self-Defense

Sifu Leo Wing

Contents
1 Preface 1

2 Introduction 4

2.1 The Wing Chun System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

3 History and Origins 16

3.1 Ip Man . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

3.2 Bruce Lee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

3.3 Wong Shun Leung . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

3.4 Leung Sheung . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

3.5 Lok Yiu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

3.6 Ho Kam Ming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

3.7 William Cheung . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

3.8 Leung Ting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

4 Principles of Wing Chun 56

4.1 Centerline Theory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

4.2 Simultaneous Attack and Defense . . . . . . . . 60

4.3 Economy of Motion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

4.4 Forward Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

4.5 Relaxation and Sensitivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

4.6 Trapping and Sticky Hands . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

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5 How to Learn Wing Chun 73

5.1 Training at Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

5.2 Wing Chun Forms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

5.3 Chi Sao . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

6 Overview of the Forms 88

6.1 Siu Nim Tao . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

6.2 Chum Kiu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

6.3 Biu Jee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

6.4 Mook Yan Jong . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

6.5 Luk Dim Boon Kwan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

6.6 Baat Jaam Do . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

7 Applications and Self-Defense 105

7.1 Real-Life Scenarios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

7.2 Adapting Wing Chun to different situations . . 108

7.3 Dealing with multiple attackers . . . . . . . . . 109

7.4 Street-smart self-defense tips . . . . . . . . . . . 110

7.5 Using improvised weapons . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

8 Mindfulness and Meditation in Wing Chun 113

8.1 Cultivating Mindfulness and Focus . . . . . . . 114

8.2 Breathing Exercises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

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 8.3 Stiffness and Rigidity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122

8.4 Mental Resilience and Stress Management . . 123

9 Basic Techniques of Wing Chun 125

9.1 Stance and Footwork . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131

9.2 Techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141

9.3 Basic Blocks and Defense . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166

9.4 Drills and Exercises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181

10 The Journey of Wing Chun Mastery 206

10.1 Setting Personal Goals and Milestones . . . . . 207

10.2 Overcoming Plateaus and Challenges . . . . . . 209

10.3 Continual Growth and Development . . . . . . 210

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Preface
 In recent years, Wing Chun, an elegant and efficient mar-
tial arts system, has captured the fascination of many, partly
due to its cinematic representation since the early 2000s. Its
portrayal often ignites high expectations among practition-
ers, only to be tempered by real-world experiences. It’s not
uncommon for some to hastily conclude that Wing Chun falls
short in practical scenarios. This book aims to delve deeper
into this misconception, exploring the complexities and true
potential of Wing Chun as a system.

The passing of Yip Man, the grandmaster of Wing Chun,

marked a pivotal moment in the history of this system. It trig-
gered a scramble for recognition among his students, many
of whom claimed to be the sole bearers of his complete teach-
ings. This race for glory was not always driven by a deep un-
derstanding or accurate application of Wing Chun principles.
Instead, it was often fueled by a desire for personal acclaim
and the practical necessities of making a living as a martial
arts instructor. Furthermore, it’s worth noting that often the
most talented and efficient fighters, who truly embodied the
essence of Wing Chun, were too humble or too engrossed in
the system itself to engage in this pursuit of recognition. Their
focus on the art, rather than on personal glory, meant that
they remained out of the spotlight, quietly preserving the in-
tegrity of Wing Chun.

In a world where being an instructor is as much a profes-

sion as a calling, commercial pressures can sometimes over-
shadow the essence of the system. However, it is not our in-
tention to critique any individual or school; this eBook is not
a vessel for gossip. Rather, our goal is to understand and ad-
dress the reasons behind the declining reputation of Wing

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Chun in contemporary times.

Our primary focus in this eBook is to share high-quality

knowledge about Wing Chun. This knowledge is crucial for
students, enthusiasts, and instructors who seek to grasp the
true depth and effectiveness of this remarkable system. The
content herein is the culmination of collective insights from
a group of seasoned Wing Chun instructors, each with over a
decade of experience. These instructors have not only prac-
ticed Wing Chun but have also applied its principles in real-
life situations.

The world of Wing Chun is often rife with debates over

lineage, authenticity, and proximity to Yip Man’s teachings.
To keep the focus on the content rather than the authors,
we have chosen to write under the pseudonym of Sifu Leo
Wing. This anonymity allows us to discuss the nuances of
Wing Chun without the distraction of personal affiliations or
school rivalries.

We embark on this journey with the hope that our readers

will gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of Wing
Chun. It is a system that, when understood and applied cor-
rectly, offers far more than what meets the eye. Through this
eBook, we aim to unravel the complexities of Wing Chun and
present it in its most authentic and practical form.

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Introduction
 By choosing this book you’ve taken a bold step toward un-
locking the incredible potential of your body and mind. As
you set out on this thrilling adventure, it’s crucial to keep in
mind that the term “Kung Fu” embodies the spirit of hard
work and unwavering dedication. Embrace this philosophy
wholeheartedly, and you’ll soon experience the life-changing
power of Wing Chun.

Now, let’s dive deeper into the profound meaning behind

“kung fu”. While many people associate the term exclusively
with martial arts, “kung fu” actually has a broader meaning
that extends beyond combat. In Chinese culture, “kung fu” (功
夫) represents the cultivation of skill, mastery, and personal
growth achieved through persistent effort, discipline, and fo-
cus over time. It’s a testament to the belief that with persever-
ance, anyone can achieve greatness in their chosen pursuit.

When you apply this concept to Wing Chun, it means

that mastering the art is not merely about learning physical
techniques, but also about developing mental strength, self-
awareness, and inner balance. As you progress through the
pages of this book and immerse yourself in the world of Wing
Chun, you’ll not only discover the practical aspects of self-
defense, but you’ll also unlock the door to personal growth
and self-improvement. So, strap in and prepare for a transfor-
mative journey that will reshape your body, mind, and spirit.

Wing Chun, a potent Chinese boxing system, has often

been erroneously associated with a futile, “ballet-like” mar-
tial art, lacking real-world effectiveness. This false impres-
sion can be traced back to the divergence of lineages after the
passing of Yip Man, a pivotal figure in the evolution and dis-

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semination of Wing Chun. Upon the departure of the revered
Grand Master Yip Man, also known as Ip Kai-man or simply Ip
Man, certain lineages began to spread a skewed and incom-
plete representation of this martial art.

Figure 2.1: Ip Man with Some of his Students

This mischaracterization likely originates from their in-

sufficient understanding of the comprehensive Wing Chun
system. As a result, it becomes exceedingly vital to seek out
and learn from a skilled instructor who imparts the knowl-
edge of an effective lineage to ensure a truly empowering and
transformative experience in the practice of Wing Chun.

As a newcomer to Wing Chun, it’s crucial to gauge the ex-

pertise and knowledge of your instructor, as this will deter-
mine whether you are embarking on an authentic Wing Chun
journey or not. In this book, we’ll provide you with insights
to identify potential red flags when evaluating a Wing Chun
teacher. Curious about an example?

Wing Chun is a Chinese boxing system rooted in practi-

cality and directness, with a strong foundation in body me-

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chanics and principles of physics. If you inquire about the
rationale behind a technique and receive a vague, mystical,
or illogical response, chances are it’s not an accurate expla-
nation. In Wing Chun, techniques are grounded in the laws
of physics, not the legends surrounding its origins.

Looking for practical examples of questions you could

ask?

Why in the basic Wing Chun stance are the feet

turned inward?

Understanding the reason behind the inward-facing feet in

the Wing Chun stance may seem complex at first. You might
have heard various instructors explain the stance in terms
of stability, balance, protecting the groin, improved mobility,
and better control of the centerline. However, the most cru-
cial aspect to focus on is the power generation that this stance
offers. As you delve deeper into your Wing Chun practice,
remember that the primary reason for turning your feet in-
ward during your stance is to enhance the force behind your
punches. This alignment allows you to harness the ground’s
energy, channel it through your legs, hips, and torso, and de-
liver more powerful strikes. Keep this in mind as you con-
tinue your journey, and your understanding of the Wing Chun
stance will become clearer and more profound.

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Is Tan Sao a Technique used for blocking?

As you begin to explore the world of Wing Chun, you’ll

quickly encounter the Tan Sao, a technique that may initially
appear to be a blocking or “dispersing hand” maneuver, as
explained by many. However, it’s essential to recognize that
Tan Sao is not a technique; it represents a fundamental con-
cept in Wing Chun, emphasizing the correct trajectory of the
elbow for effective punching. From the very start, Tan Sao
serves as a guide, demonstrating the proper alignment and
positioning of your elbow for the unique Wing Chun punch.
This punch, which differs significantly from those found in
other martial arts, will be explored in greater depth as you
progress through your reading. By appreciating Tan Sao as a
core concept rather than merely a technique, you’ll develop a
deeper understanding of Wing Chun’s principles and the im-
portance of proper elbow trajectory. This insight will signifi-
cantly enhance your practice, enabling you to harness the full
potential of this martial art’s unique approach to self-defense.

These are merely a handful of pointers to get you started,

but rest assured, we will delve deeper into this topic in the
upcoming chapters of the book, ensuring that you’re well-
equipped to navigate the world of Wing Chun with confidence
and discernment.

As you immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Wing

Chun, it becomes increasingly important to grasp the subtle
distinctions between Wing Chun, Ving Tsun, Wing Tsun, and
other lineages. Each term signifies a unique lineage within
the larger martial art, showcasing the evolution and adapta-
tions made by various masters throughout history.
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 By recognizing and appreciating these differences, you’ll
gain a richer understanding of the diverse approaches and
perspectives that have shaped the practice over the years.
This deeper insight will allow you to explore and refine your
own journey in Wing Chun, as you learn from the wisdom
and expertise of those who have come before you.

So, as you continue to delve into the captivating realm of

this martial art, remember to approach each lineage with an
open mind and a willingness to learn. This will enable you
to appreciate the nuances that make Wing Chun lineages dis-
tinct, while also deepening your connection to the martial art
as a whole. Below, we analyze the difference between the
more popular ones:

Wing Chun

First, let’s explore Wing Chun (詠春 or 咏春), the original and
earliest name given to this martial art. Developed in south-
ern China, Wing Chun is a practical and efficient system of
self-defense that emphasizes simplicity and directness in its
techniques. As the foundation for all other lineages, it is the
root from which the various branches have grown.

Ving Tsun

Next, you’ll encounter Ving Tsun, the lineage that emerged

from Yip Man’s teachings. As a prominent figure in the Wing
Chun community, Yip Man introduced modifications and ad-
ditions to the original system, tailoring it to his own experi-

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ences and understanding. By doing so, he created his unique
interpretation, known as Ving Tsun. Despite these changes,
the core principles and techniques of Wing Chun remain in-
tact, allowing practitioners to benefit from Yip Man’s wisdom
while still honoring the martial art’s origins.

Figure 2.2: Grand Master Ip Man

Wing Tsun

Lastly, there is Wing Tsun, the lineage created by Leung Ting,

a highly controversial figure in the Wing Chun community. As
a student of Yip Man’s lineage, Leung Ting sought to further
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refine and develop the martial art, resulting in his distinct
version called Wing Tsun. While some practitioners appre-
ciate his innovations, others regard them as unnecessary de-
viations from the original teachings, causing a divide within
the community.

Figure 2.3: Leung Ting. Founder of Wing Tsun

Another thing you may be surprised to learn is that “sensi-

tivity”, a concept often touted as paramount, can be overem-
phasized to the point of undermining other essential aspects

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of the martial art. This is particularly evident in the prac-
tice of chi-sao 黐手), also known as chi-sau. Far from solely
honing sensitivity, chi-sao serves to fortify your punch, refine
its trajectory, and, most importantly, reinforce and root your
structure. However, we will explore the intricacies of chi-sao
practice in greater detail in the subsequent chapters.

While sensitivity may be overemphasized in some cir-

cles, it is important not to dismiss its value in the practice
of Wing Chun entirely. Sensitivity, particularly when paired
with the softness of muscles during training, plays a vital role
in enhancing your abilities as a practitioner. As you progress
through your journey, embracing both sensitivity and muscle
relaxation will allow you to intuitively respond to your op-
ponent’s movements, swiftly adapting and countering their
techniques. It’s a delicate balance.

Indeed, the concept of balance holds significant impor-

tance when it comes to learning and mastering Wing Chun.
At its core, this martial art is deeply rooted in the principles of
physics and body mechanics, showcasing a logical and metic-
ulously designed system. Yet, beyond its technical prowess,
Wing Chun imparts a profound philosophy and an approach
to acquiring knowledge that can be applied to all facets of
your life. As you immerse yourself in this elegant martial art,
you’ll discover that it offers much more than just self-defense
techniques. Wing Chun provides you with a key to unlocking
your potential in any endeavor you choose to pursue, enrich-
ing your life with a harmonious balance of physical prowess
and philosophical wisdom.

Although Wing Chun is fundamentally rooted in scientific

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principles, it is frequently misunderstood. We briefly touched
upon the notion that Tan-Sao, for instance, is not merely a
block but rather embodies a core concept of the martial art.
This type of misconception is not unique to Wing Chun; it is,
in fact, quite prevalent across various martial arts disciplines.
Forms are not simply a collection of techniques; instead, they
serve as an exhibition of the foundational concepts that un-
derpin the art. You’ll learn to appreciate the depth and mean-
ing behind these forms, transcending beyond their surface-
level appearance to grasp the essence of the martial art’s guid-
ing principles.

I
The Wing Chun System

The first thing that you should learn about Wing Chun is that
it’s a system. It’s not a style, it’s not a sport, it’s not a competi-
tion. It’s a system. A system is a set of rules that can be applied
to a specific situation. Initially, you will learn the basic rules
of the system. Then, you will learn how to apply the rules to
a specific situation. Finally, you will learn how to adapt the
rules to a specific situation.

Another essential principle to grasp is the importance of

relaxation. It may seem counterintuitive, but relaxation truly
is the key to success in this martial art. By remaining relaxed,
you’ll be able to harness the full power of the system and be-
come a more effective practitioner.

You might be wondering: should I really relax to become a

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better warrior? The answer is a resounding yes. When you’re
relaxed, you’re better equipped to listen to and understand
the subtle signals your body sends. In turn, this heightened
self-awareness allows you to express yourself more freely
and effectively in combat, as well as navigate the challenges
of everyday life with greater ease.

In our comprehensive book, we delve deeper into the crit-

ical role relaxation plays in Wing Chun, exploring its con-
nection to generating striking power and enhancing overall
performance. Additionally, we dedicate an entire chapter
to mindfulness and breathing exercises designed to support
your practice and help you develop the necessary relaxation
skills for success in Wing Chun.

By beginning your Wing Chun journey with a solid un-

derstanding of the importance of relaxation, you’ll be well-
prepared to unlock the full potential of this martial art. Our
book serves as a valuable guide to help you cultivate this es-
sential skill, setting the stage for a captivating and transfor-
mative experience that goes far beyond the practice itself.

Learning Wing Chun is a journey. You chose this path be-

cause something inside you knows that it’s related to you in
some way. It’s something that you truly want to master and
you are passionate to understand every day something more.
You are here because you want to learn how to fight but, in
the end, you will discover something more important.

In conclusion, this captivating introduction has only

scratched the surface of the profound and practical knowl-
edge you’ll gain from our comprehensive book. By delving
into the rich history and origins of Wing Chun, you’ll develop

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a deeper appreciation for the martial art and the wisdom
passed down through generations.

As you explore the fundamental principles of Wing Chun,

you’ll begin to understand the unique approach this martial
art takes to self-defense, enabling you to apply its techniques
with greater effectiveness. Our chapter on learning Wing
Chun ensures that you’ll have a solid foundation for your
practice, while the detailed overview of the forms provides
valuable insight into each aspect of this intricate martial art.

Furthermore, our book goes beyond the forms, covering

real-world applications and self-defense strategies that will
empower you to confidently protect yourself and others. The
inclusion of mindfulness and meditation practices demon-
strates the integral role of mental and emotional well-being
in Wing Chun, fostering personal growth and balance both
on and off the training floor.

Ultimately, Wing Chun: Practical Introduction to Self-

Defense serves as a trusted companion on your journey
towards Wing Chun mastery. With this book as your guide,
you’ll not only develop the physical skills and mental forti-
tude necessary for success in this martial art but also unlock
the transformative power of Wing Chun, enriching every
aspect of your life.

Click here to download the complete book

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